Published on June 15, 2025
Despite recent speculation, Melbourne’s ambitious Metro Tunnel Project remains firmly on schedule to open by the end of the year. Reports that trains would bypass two major stations have been addressed by the project’s leadership, with officials confirming the delays are part of the original plan - not a cause for concern.
Ben Ryan, Executive Project Director of the Metro Tunnel Project, spoke to Jacqui Felgate to clarify the timeline and assure the public that everything is proceeding as planned.
Some Stations to Open Slightly Later - By Design
“State Library and Town Hall stations were always intended to take a bit longer to complete
,” Ryan explained. “They’re more complex builds due to their location in the heart of the city.”This aligns with early project plans, which acknowledged the engineering challenges of constructing deep underground stations in heavily built-up urban areas.
“As I said, we’ve got a plan that gets us to an opening later this year,” Ryan confirmed.
No Backup Plan Needed - Because the Plan Is Working
Ryan also addressed concerns that the project may need a contingency plan in case of further delays. His response was confident and clear: “There is no alternative plan - because the current one is on track.”
After years of construction, the Metro Tunnel is one of the largest infrastructure projects in Victoria's history. Once complete, it will significantly improve rail capacity and reduce travel times through Melbourne’s CBD by connecting key lines and new stations.
Looking Ahead
As construction continues to progress toward its final stages, anticipation is growing across Melbourne. With modern stations, improved train reliability, and a smarter network design, the Metro Tunnel promises to reshape how people travel through the city.
Stay tuned to our blog for further updates on transport projects and infrastructure developments across Australia.
